By: Fatou Krubally
The Janneh Commission’s Secretary, Ms. Ramou Sarr, faced a stern warning from the lead counsel of the Special Select Committee during Monday’s hearing, with the possibility of being cited for contempt if she fails to provide full and frank disclosure.
The hearing, which scrutinizes the sale and disposal of assets identified by the Janneh Commission, focused on Ms. Sarr’s responsibilities as Head of Secretariat and her oversight of subordinates who prepared reports on key transactions, including the sale of tractors and vehicles.
Lead Counsel Lamin Dibba emphasized that as the Secretary, Ms. Sarr was expected to guide the Committee with accurate information, ensure that her subordinates’ actions were properly accounted for, and provide comprehensive records. He warned that failure to do so could result in her being held accountable for non-cooperation.
“You are supposed to give us information regarding what you and your colleagues have been doing. If you do not, you will face consequences for failing to provide full disclosure,” the lead counsel told the witness.
The Committee is particularly concerned with whether custodial documents were properly transmitted to the Ministry of Justice and the handling of soft copies related to asset sales. The lead counsel stressed that any gaps in reporting would not be tolerated, noting that Ms. Sarr’s position required her to know the status of all activities under her supervision.
The Chairperson of the Committee, Abdoulie Ceesay, supported the counsel’s warning, noting the importance of accountability and proper record-keeping in public service.
The Committee adjourned to allow the Secretary time to go through the reports, with the expectation that she will return prepared to answer all questions as expected of her during the next adjournment date. Members reiterated that any evasiveness or failure to guide the Committee accurately could result in legal consequences, including being cited for contempt.